Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions at Dakota Family Dentistry. Explore our FAQs about treatments, insurance, appointments, and what to expect during your visit.

Dental Checkups

What if you find a cavity?

We offer same-day treatment for many procedures using advanced technology like Biolase lasers for comfortable, drill-free cavity treatment.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can request an appointment through our website or contact our office directly. We offer convenient morning and evening hours.

What should I bring to my first visit?

Please bring your insurance card, photo ID, and completed new patient forms. You can download these from our website in advance.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, we provide flexible financing options to help make dental care affordable for all our patients.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes. We use digital X-rays that emit minimal radiation while providing detailed images for accurate diagnosis.

Do you accept insurance?

We accept most major insurance plans, including Delta Dental Premier and HealthPartners. Our team will help maximize your benefits.

How long does a checkup take?

A typical checkup and cleaning appointment takes about 60 minutes. New patient visits may require additional time.

What if I have dental anxiety?

We offer a comfortable, judgment-free environment and various comfort options including The Wand for gentle anesthetic delivery and entertainment options during treatment.

What ages do you treat?

We welcome patients of all ages who can cooperate with treatment, providing comprehensive family dental care.

How often should I get a dental checkup?

Most patients should schedule checkups every six months. However, some may need more frequent visits based on their oral health needs.

Orthodontics

What happens if I lose my aligners or a bracket?

If you lose an aligner or break a bracket, contact us immediately. We can provide you with a replacement or adjust your treatment plan to keep things on track.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost, and do you offer financing?

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies based on the complexity of your needs. We offer flexible payment plans and will discuss costs during your consultation. Our team will also help verify your insurance benefits to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

Can I still drink coffee or wine with SureSmile aligners?

It’s best to remove your aligners before drinking coffee, wine, or any beverages other than water to prevent staining. Afterward, brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners.

How do I know if I need orthodontic treatment?

If you have crooked, misaligned, or crowded teeth, or if you experience difficulty chewing or speaking, orthodontic treatment could help. We’ll assess your needs during a consultation and recommend the best treatment options.

How often should I wear my SureSmile aligners?

For the best results, you should wear your SureSmile aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Remove them only when eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing.

Will orthodontic treatment affect my speech?

For the first few days, you may notice a slight change in your speech, especially if you’re using clear aligners like SureSmile. Most patients adjust quickly and return to normal speech within a few days.

How do FastBraces work?

FastBraces® use a unique design to straighten teeth in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional braces. This efficient system can give you a beautiful, straight smile in as little as 3-12 months.

What are the benefits of SureSmile aligners?

SureSmile clear aligners are a discreet, comfortable way to straighten your teeth. They’re removable, so you can eat and drink normally, and they often require fewer visits than traditional braces.

Are orthodontic treatments only for teenagers?

Not at all! Orthodontic treatments are suitable for patients of all ages. Whether you're a teen or an adult, we offer solutions like FastBraces® and SureSmile to help you achieve a straighter smile.

How long will my orthodontic treatment take?

The length of your treatment depends on your individual needs. Most patients complete their orthodontic journey in 12-24 months. We’ll give you a more accurate timeline during your consultation.

Veneers

What if a veneer breaks?

While rare, damaged veneers can be replaced individually to restore your smile.

How do I care for my veneers?

Maintain regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Avoid biting hard objects or using your teeth as tools.

Are veneers covered by insurance?

As a cosmetic procedure, veneers are typically not covered by insurance. We offer flexible financing options.

Can I whiten my veneers?

Porcelain veneers resist staining and cannot be whitened. We'll match them to your desired shade during design.

How many veneers will I need?

The number of veneers depends on your specific needs and goals, typically ranging from 2-8 teeth.

Can I still get cavities with veneers?

Yes, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to protect your natural teeth beneath the veneers.

How long do veneers last?

With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or longer.

Is the procedure painful?

We use local anesthesia and gentle techniques to ensure your comfort throughout treatment.

Will veneers look natural?

Our custom-crafted veneers are designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and translucency.

Are veneers permanent?

Yes, veneers are a permanent restoration, as some enamel must be removed for placement.

Dental Implants

What is the success rate of dental implants?

Dental implants have a success rate of over 95% when placed by experienced providers.

What makes Dakota Family Dentistry different for implant treatment?

Our practice combines advanced technology, experienced providers, and personalized care to ensure optimal implant results in a comfortable environment.

Are implants covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans provide partial coverage for implants. Our team will help you understand your benefits and coverage options.

How do I care for my dental implants?

Implants require the same care as natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.

Will my implant look natural?

Yes, our custom-crafted restorations are designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size.

Can I get an implant right after an extraction?

In many cases, immediate implant placement is possible, but this depends on your specific situation and bone quality.

How long do implants last?

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime.

How much do dental implants cost?

Cost varies based on individual treatment needs. We offer flexible financing options and work with most major insurance plans.

Are dental implants painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure, managed with local anesthesia and over-the-counter pain medication.

How long does the implant process take?

The complete process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on your individual case and healing time.

Teeth Whitening

Will whitening cause tooth sensitivity?

Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity, which usually resolves within 24-48 hours.

What can I eat after whitening?

We recommend avoiding dark-colored foods and beverages for 24-48 hours after treatment.

Are there any alternatives to teeth whitening?

Yes, options like veneers or bonding may be recommended for certain types of discoloration.

Is teeth whitening covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans consider teeth whitening cosmetic and don't provide coverage.

How can I maintain my results?

Regular dental hygiene, avoiding staining substances, and occasional touch-up treatments help maintain results.

Can all types of stains be removed?

While most external stains respond well to whitening, some internal stains may require alternative treatments.

How white will my teeth get?

Results vary, but most patients see their teeth brighten by several shades.

How long does professional teeth whitening take?

Most in-office whitening treatments take between 60-90 minutes to complete.

How long do results last?

Results typically last 6-12 months with proper care and maintenance.

Is professional teeth whitening safe?

Yes, professional whitening is safe when performed by qualified dental professionals.

Emergency Dentistry

What should I bring to my emergency appointment?

Bring any relevant medical history, current medications list, insurance information, and payment method. If you have a knocked-out tooth or broken restoration, bring these items with you.

Is sedation available for emergency treatment?

Yes, we offer various sedation options through Elite Anesthesia for patients who need additional comfort during emergency procedures.

What emergency dental services do you provide?

We offer comprehensive emergency services, including treatment for toothaches, broken teeth, lost fillings/crowns, infections, and trauma-related injuries.

Can I prevent dental emergencies?

Regular checkups, proper oral hygiene, and wearing protective gear during sports can help prevent many dental emergencies.

What if I have a dental emergency after hours?

Contact our office immediately. Our answering service will provide instructions for urgent care needs outside regular business hours.

Will my emergency treatment hurt?

Your comfort is our priority. We use advanced techniques like the Wand anesthetic system and gentle approaches to ensure more comfortable treatment.

Do you accept insurance for emergency visits?

Yes, we accept most major insurance plans, including Delta Dental Premier and HealthPartners. We also offer flexible payment options for your convenience.

What constitutes a dental emergency?

Any situation causing severe pain, bleeding, or trauma to your teeth or gums requires immediate attention. This includes knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, broken teeth, or dental abscesses.

What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?

Keep the tooth moist, preferably by placing it back in the socket or holding it between your cheek and gums. If that's not possible, place it in milk and contact us immediately.

How quickly can I be seen for a dental emergency?

We make every effort to see emergency patients the same day or the next day, depending on the severity of your situation and the time of your call.

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